Venezuela Struck by Double Strong Earthquakes: Magnitude 7+ Quakes Cause Heavy Damage, State of Emergency Declared
[Keywords] Venezuela earthquake, strong earthquake, state of emergency, Caracas, overseas Chinese
On the evening of June 24, 2025, local time, northern Venezuela experienced two strong earthquakes above magnitude 7 in less than a minute. The epicenter was about 160 km west of the capital Caracas, with a depth of only 10 km, making it a highly destructive shallow earthquake. The US Geological Survey immediately issued a red alert, warning of "heavy casualties and widespread damage," with preliminary estimates suggesting the death toll most likely between 10,000 and 100,000. This sudden disaster not only plunged the entire nation into grief but also drew widespread international attention.
1. Earthquake Details and Scientific Analysis
According to USGS seismic monitoring, at 22:04 UTC on June 24 (06:04 Beijing time on June 25), a magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck near Montalván, Venezuela, at a depth of 10 km. Within less than a minute, a magnitude 7.5 quake hit the same area, with an epicenter at 10.40°N, 68.32°W, also at a depth of 10 km. These two successive shallow quakes mean energy was released near the surface, causing severe damage to buildings and infrastructure.
The earthquakes occurred during a public holiday in Venezuela, with many people at home. The USGS noted that assessing damage is complex and more aftershocks could occur, worsening the situation. The agency emphasized that the red alert means a "large disaster area," potentially triggering landslides, soil liquefaction, and widespread infrastructure disruption.
2. Government Rapid Emergency Response
After the strong quakes, the Venezuelan government showed quick response. On the evening of June 24, Acting President Delcy Rodríguez delivered a national televised address, calling for unity in the aftermath. She first expressed deep condolences to the victims' families, then announced a nationwide suspension of classes and all non-essential activities to concentrate resources on disaster response.
Rodríguez stated that the government activated a state of emergency immediately after the quakes. This measure aims to accelerate rescue operations, effectively mobilize national resources, and coordinate relief efforts across agencies. Meanwhile, relevant departments are assessing damage and potential casualties in affected areas. To ensure post-disaster safety, she announced the temporary closure of the Simón Bolívar International Airport near Caracas, the country's largest air gateway, causing concern among those planning to evacuate.
3. Disaster Scene: Collapsed Buildings and Panicked Crowds
The strong quakes caused severe damage in Caracas and surrounding areas. In the municipality of Chacao, Miranda state near Caracas, Mayor Gustavo Duque reported two building collapses in the city. Rescue teams successfully saved 18 trapped injured people, with over 500 government workers on site conducting rescue operations. Additionally, multiple buildings collapsed in eastern Caracas, raising large clouds of dust, nearly obscuring vision.
Mr. Jin, an overseas Chinese in Caracas, experienced the disaster firsthand. He recalled: "I was running in the park this afternoon when the earthquake hit, and I felt the ground start shaking."
